Understanding Windows 10’s End of Life
Understanding Windows 10’s End of Life
Microsoft likes Windows 10, but not too much. It became quite popular when Windows 8 failed. (Yay!) However, it is so popular that many don’t want to switch to Windows 11. (Boo!)
Each good thing must end, and it’s not just about Microsoft getting more money. Developers get greater capabilities, third-party storefront support, and security in Windows 11. That may not impress your office colleagues, and every new OS requires time to learn. But Windows 11 is coming and Windows 10 is retiring. This blog will explain what it entails.
Windows 10 Business End-of-Support Timeline
A product’s EOL is when it stops being sold, updated, or advertised. A product will no longer be supported for free after end of support (EOS).
What Does Windows 10’s End of Support Mean?
If your workforce has newer Windows 11 PCs, no problem! You may update Windows 10 (2004 or later) PCs to Windows 11 for free. You may download Windows 11 manually or via your updates menu.
If nothing of these works, you have other alternatives.
What Happens When Windows 10 Support Ends?
This is a typical question, however Windows 10’s EOL date passed without notification. EOL and EOS are sometimes used interchangeably, but Windows 10’s EOS date is distinct, which is why many are talking about it.
This is the answer most people want. After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 won’t depart from your PC. You may keep using it. It will no longer get free security upgrades. The longer you run Windows 10 beyond its EOS date without a security strategy, the riskier your computers and data are.
Why Plan Now?
Although fall 2025 seems far away, significant IT transformations require time to design and execute. This one may be costly depending on how well your organization has kept up with technology.
However, there are additional less apparent reasons not to delay:
You may need to replace more hardware than you anticipate.
Devices with higher risk should be prioritized.
You may be able to pay this off gradually.
Surprises like needing to update other software may occur.
Unsupported software may violate compliance in tightly regulated businesses.
Start preparing now to have more time to examine alternatives.
You have options! Outline them next!
